Chapter 1 history

The origins and course of the First World War, 1905-1918

What were the alliances in early 20th century Europe

• The triple entente

  Russia, France and Britain

• The triple alliance

  Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy

• Russia and Serbia

Who was the ruler of Germany in 1905

Kaiser Wilheim II

Who was the ruler of Russia in 1905

Tsar Nicholas II

Who was the ruler of Austria-Hungary in 1905

Emporer Franz-Joseph

Which region of France had been taken from it in a previous war

Alsace-Lorraine

What was the main political policy in England in 1905

Isolationism- “splendid isolation”, not wanting to involve itself in European politics

Summarise the key points of Germany’s war plan

The Schlieffen plan

• Attack France by invading through Belgium

• Avoid strong border defences

• Swiftly take over Paris so that France surrenders

• Send troops to Russia before they could mobalise

• Since Russia is large it would take an estimated 6 weeks to mobilise it’s military

What German action sparked the Naval war

The Navy laws

These gave permission to greatly build and expand the German navy

What was name of the revolutionary british ship and when was it launched

HMS dreadnought 1906

How many dreadnoughts were built on both sides

Britain- 29

Germany- 17

What was the British rule concerning the size of it’s navy

The “two-power standard”

It’s navy must be larger than the consecutive two largest powers combined

What Russian organisation was formed during the arm’s race

The Russian State Defence Council

Dealt with war plans and the intelligence service

What company was responsible for Austria-Hungary’s contibution to the Arm’s race

Skoda works

It secretly produced massive cannons and guns

What group was formed in Britain to create backup forces during the Arm’s race

The Territorial Army of Volunteers

Summarise the key points of France’s war plan

Plan XVII (17)

• If war breaks out, French troups immediately attack Alsace-Lorraine

• With traditional infantry charges and strong determination the provences are quickly captured

• French troups advance on Berlin